Benicia Community Foundation Celebrates the Success Dedication of Harold Bray Monument

Media Contact: Nancy Herrera | (415) 425-8179 | [email protected]

Benicia, CA – May 21, 2024 – The Benicia Community Foundation is proud to announce the successful dedication ceremony for the Harold Bray Monument on May 18, 2024, at Eunice Jensen Park. This event honored Harold Bray, the last living survivor of USS Indianapolis disaster, and celebrated his enduring legacy and the memory of all veterans who have served our country and our community. 

The ceremony, which began at 10:00 AM, featured a moving keynote address by Dr. James Armstead from the US Naval War College. The well-attended event also included inspiring speeches from Benicia Police Chief Mark Menesini, Benicia Mayor Steve Young, and Debbi Bray, the daughter-in-law of Harold Bray. Their heartfelt tributes highlighted Bray’s remarkable courage and the significance of his contributions to our nation.

David Batchelor, Chair of the Benicia Community Foundation, underscored the monument's importance, stating, "This monument serves as a tribute to our armed forces and veterans, inspiring us to honor and preserve their legacy of service."

The event was attended by numerous military veterans, local first responders and hundreds of community members from near and far, reflecting the widespread admiration and respect for Harold Bray and his legacy. Guests also enjoyed nostalgic trolley rides along First Street, offering a unique glimpse into Benicia’s historic charm. 

The Benicia Community Foundation extends its deep gratitude to the many volunteers and local small businesses including: the Harold Bray Monument Committee, Abbott Concrete, John Laverty Construction, Brandon Marshall of FOG Studio, Signal Solutions, Valero, Rod Sherry of CSA Inc., the City of Benicia, Benicia Police Department, Benicia Fire Department, the Benicia Veterans Memorial Hall, Daughters of the American Revolution, Red and White Fleet, Luke George, Balloon Works by Mary, Plan It Interactive, M&M Maintenance, and many others that donated their time and resources to build the monument and make the event a great success. 

Benicia Community Foundation is excited to announce that sponsorship opportunities for the Harold Bray Monument are still available until June 30, 2024. Currently, a styrofoam mock-up of the final design is on display, providing a preview of this meaningful tribute. We are still accepting donations, and this is your chance to have your name featured on the brass plaques of the Harold Bray Monument, honoring the generous donors who support this project. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a lasting impact and be part of this significant community project! For more information on how to get involved, please visit our sponsorship page: beniciacf.org/supporting-benicia/harold-bray-bronze-statue-and-monument. 

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About Benicia Community Foundation:
The Benicia Community Foundation is dedicated to proactively improving the lives of Benicians while supporting our community by strengthening the City’s economic vitality, enhancing beautification and building community camaraderie.  www.BeniciaCF.org 

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